You might remember years past when winter was a time to get outside and find something magical. Although these activities are less common, the small and sweet mountain town of Cloudcroft holds the southernmost ice rink, and it is the only natural place to go ice skating in New Mexico. This quaint ice rink offers the entire family the opportunity to experience the magic of winter with a hint of nostalgia!

Welcome to the James Sewell Ice Rink in New Mexico!
Cloudcroft Ice Rink/Facebook
There's no better place for an enchanting natural ice rink than the sweet mountain town of Cloudcroft. This town sits at an altitude of 8,650 feet in the Lincoln National Forest. While the rest of the state may not be seeing much snow, Cloudcroft is up in the mountains and is a winter wonderland.
Every winter, Cloudcroft comes alive with many winter activities.
Cloudcroft Ice Rink Facebook Page
You'll find locals snowmobiling, skiing, and embracing the weather after it dips below freezing. One of the most fun activities of all is ice skating outside. This ice rink is covered, so you can get out on the ice whether it's snowing or not.
The James Sewell Ice Rink is the only natural ice rink in the state, and the southernmost natural ice rink in the country.
Cloudcroft Ice Rink/Facebook
Despite being a desert state, this little ice rink is breaking stereotypes. In the 1960s, James Sewell filled a low spot in the town with water, creating an ice rink that could be kept without electric refrigeration.

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Now, this outdoor ice rink is a huge hit for New Mexicans near and far.
Cloudcroft Ice Rink Facebook Page
With a warming hut, snack bar, and skate rentals, this little outdoor establishment has everything you need to enjoy the holiday season!
This place has become a gathering spot, and a tradition year after year.
Cloudcroft Ice Rink/Facebook
After you visit the snack bar and purchase graham crackers and marshmallows, you can roast them over the nearby fire for perfect s'more. Gather round with friends and family, and enjoy a classic winter activity that's fun for people of all ages.
This natural ice rink is a Southwest winter activity that will transport you to simpler times, and offer an enchanting experience for the whole family.
Cloudcroft Ice Rink/Facebook
The James Sewell Ice Rink is located at 751 James Canyon Highway. It generally opens in late December, weather permitting, and is open daily. If you’ve never been to Cloudcroft, coming here to skate is a great way to get introduced to this charming little jewel of New Mexico.

Do you have fond memories of ice skating in the winter? Have you been to the James Sewell Ice Rink? Let us hear all about your experience in the comments, and don’t forget to share your photos from all of your winter outings with us in our New Mexico Nature Lovers Facebook Group, or tag us on Instagram by tagging #onlyinnewmexico for a chance to be featured!

For another winter activity that’s a bit more exhilarating, check out the most underrated snow tubing park that’s right here in New Mexico.

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More to Explore

Holiday Time in New Mexico

Lysa Allman-Baldwin | November 14, 2022

Can you suggest another fun holiday activity in New Mexico?

If you’re looking for a fun holiday activity in New Mexico, you might consider the Roswell Christmas Railway. This fun annual event takes place at the Spring River Zoo in Roswell. Very family-friendly, the railway meanders throughout the zoo on a magical light-filled journey. Visits with Santa and Mrs. Claus, the Elf Village, and more are all part of the fun here.

Where can I find Christmas towns in New Mexico?

There are quite a few Christmas towns in New Mexico, and they each offer a different holiday perspective of the Land of Enchantment. Among them are:

  • Las Vegas - A highlight here is the scores of historic buildings, many of which are all aglow for the season.
  • Carlsbad – One of the most popular events is WildLights at the Living Desert Zoo, which was named one of the best zoo lights displays in the nation.
  • Taos – A not to be missed event here is the Taos Winter Wine Festival where you can drink wine, enjoy great food, and ski.
  • Madrid – Although technically considered a ghost town, each year it offers an incredible holiday light display.

 

Read on to learn about more awesome Christmas towns in New Mexico.

 

Are there any Christmas parades in New Mexico?

If you’re looking for Christmas parades in New Mexico you won’t be disappointed, as they are offered in several wonderful places. Consider a few of the following:

  • WinterFest Parade – Held in Los Alamos, about 40 minutes northwest of Santa Fe
  • Twinkle Light Parade – Held in Albuquerque and featuring a mile-long stretch of illumination along Route 66
  • Light Up Artesia – Artesia is about a 40-minute drive north of Carlsbad
  • Holiday Electric Light Parade – Held in Socorro, a little over an hour south of Albuquerque.

 

Where can we go hiking in the winter in New Mexico?

Hiking in the winter in New Mexico is an enchanting experience. You will find scores of wonderful trails, each one offering unique vistas of the landscape at this time of the year. Some of the trails to consider exploring are:

Read on and discover more enchanting places for hiking in the winter in New Mexico.

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Featured Addresses
James Sewell Ice Rink, 751 James Canyon Hwy, Cloudcroft, NM 88317, USA